Every living person has trillions of microbes living in their digestive tract, and more than 400 species of bacteria in the gut, more than the number of cells in the body. The normal gut flora is important to maintain eubiosis, the microbial balance in the body.
When there is an imbalance in the gut bacteria, termed as dysbiosis, it can lead to a wide array of digestive disturbances and other health conditions. The gut flora is important in fighting off harmful pathogens, digesting food, and synthesizing vitamins, which all contribute to overall health.